Swollen Lymph Nodes — Know When to See Your GP

What swollen lymph nodes are

Lymph nodes are part of your immune system. They help your body recognise and respond to infection. When they swell, it usually means the immune system is active. People commonly notice swollen nodes in the neck, under the jaw, behind the ears, in the armpits, or in the groin. They may feel tender, firm, or rubbery — and in many cases, they settle as the underlying cause improves.

Common causes

Swollen lymph nodes are most often linked to infections such as colds, flu, throat infections, ear infections, dental problems, skin infections, or viral illnesses. They may also swell after vaccinations or with inflammatory conditions. Children and young adults frequently experience reactive lymph nodes during common infections.

When swelling may suggest something more serious

Occasionally, persistent or unusual lymph node swelling may relate to autoimmune disease, chronic infection, or, rarely, cancer such as lymphoma or spread from other cancers. These possibilities are less common but important to assess when symptoms do not follow a usual pattern.

When to see your GP

Seek review if lymph nodes:
• remain swollen for more than a few weeks
• keep getting larger
• feel very hard or fixed in place
• are accompanied by fever, night sweats, weight loss, persistent fatigue, or illness
• occur without a clear infection
• are painful, red, or associated with swelling of the overlying skin

Sudden breathing difficulty or rapidly enlarging neck swelling needs urgent care.

What your GP may do

Your GP will assess the size, location, duration, tenderness, and pattern of swelling, and review your overall health. Depending on findings, they may arrange blood tests, ultrasound, imaging, or referral to a specialist. Many cases need only reassurance and monitoring, while others require specific treatment for an underlying cause.

Reassurance and perspective

Most swollen lymph nodes are a normal immune response — not a sign of serious disease. However, persistent or unexplained swelling deserves assessment to ensure safe and clear management.

This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.